Govt offered way forward on uni changes

The federal government could be edging closer to a deal on its higher education changes, with independent senator John Madigan outlining his demands.

The coalition needs six extra votes to get its university deregulation bill through the Senate.

The bill, which passed the lower house in September, has been listed as the first piece of business for the final sitting week of the Senate for 2014.

Senator Madigan, who met Education Minister Christopher Pyne on Thursday, wants a university price watchdog, the scrapping of higher interest rates for student loans, more funding for regional universities and support for poor regional students.

It is understood the government is warming to the idea of a price regulator.

"My goal has been to get the best outcomes for students, for graduates and particularly for people from disadvantaged backgrounds," Senator Madigan said.

A spokesman for Mr Pyne said negotiations continued, with the intent of passing the bill next week.

She won't support any government bills until a better pay deal is offered to Defence personnel, but is keen to get more education funding for Tasmania and ensure regional students are not short-changed.